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Rotary Vane Vacuum Pumps

The robust and durable vacuum solution

Oil-lubricated rotary vane vacuum pumps from Pfeiffer are characterized by high pumping speeds and reliable operation across the rough and medium vacuum range. Due to their robust design and consistent performance, they are widely used in analytical and laboratory environments. Hermetically sealed versions further minimize the risk of contamination, making these vacuum pumps ideal for processes like sterilization. They are also well-suited for use as backing pumps for turbomolecular vacuum pumps.
Functional principle of Duo 6 and Duo 6 M

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Types of rotary vane vacuum pumps

Rotary vane vacuum pumps from Pfeiffer cover a wide pumping speed range from 1.6 to 300 m3/h.

They are available in single-stage and two-stage versions. Single-stage rotary vane pumps are ideal for applications with an operating pressure predominantly in the rough vacuum range. In contrast, two-stage rotary vane pumps compress the medium in two steps, enabling them to achieve significantly higher vacuum levels.

Single-stage rotary vane vacuum pumps

Single-stage rotary vane vacuum pumps from Pfeiffer are the ideal solution for the rough vacuum range. They are known for their quiet operation and compact design, making them a perfect choice for laboratory environments or mass spectrometry.

These vacuum pumps feature a hermetically sealed design, made possible by encapsulating the motor directly within the pump housing and eliminating conventional shaft seals. Since these seals are components typically prone to wear and leakage, their removal increases overall reliability, extends service life, and reduces maintenance requirements.

Benefits

  • Hermetically sealed: Clean vacuum generation without contamination
  • Ideal backing pump: For mass spectrometers thanks to the sealed design
  • Low noise levels: 60 dB(A) for optimal working conditions in laboratories
  • Compact: Seamless integration into existing systems
  • Energy-efficient: Motor with low power consumption

Two-stage rotary vane vacuum pumps

Two-stage rotary vane pumps from Pfeiffer are engineered for high performance in various industrial and scientific applications in the medium vacuum range such as coating or freeze-drying. They deliver high pumping speeds and are able to handle a wide range of gas types. Many models are also available with an optional magnetic coupling. This innovative design magnetically connects the motor to the pump. As a result, the rotor inside the vacuum pump is driven without the usual shaft seals, preventing leakage and contamination.

Benefits

  • Flexible: Designed for a wide range of applications
  • Universal motor: Compatible with various voltages worldwide
  • Optimal performance: High pumping speeds and reliable vacuum generation
  • Reduced maintenance: Due to optional magnetic couplings, eliminating wear-prone shaft seals
  • Safe operation: Safety valve for enhanced protection in case of system failures

Product family
Version
Nominal pumping speed at 50 Hz
DuoVane
two-stage
1.25 m3/h – 250 m3/h
SmartVane
single-stage
55 m3/h – 70 m3/h
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Engineered for excellence in rough to medium vacuum

Applications

Pfeiffer rotary vane vacuum pumps are high-performance vacuum generators for various industrial and scientific applications such as freeze-drying or sterilization. They ensure reliable and efficient operation thanks to their robust design. Available with optional magnetic coupling and as single- or two-stage versions, they can be adapted to fit a wide range of processes.

Each industry and application has unique requirements. To discover which vacuum solution best meets your needs, contact our experts.

Is your application or your industry not listed? Check out our product finder!

Vacuum pump units with rotary vane vacuum pumps

Our HiCube series combines HiPace turbomolecular vacuum pumps with rotary vane vacuum pumps as backing pumps.

These modular vacuum pump units provide a turnkey solution for high vacuum applications such as residual gas analysis. They are easy to use with a touch display and allow for process monitoring as well as measurement data recording.
turbomolecular_vacuum_pump_units_hicube_neo

Rotary vane vacuum pump service

Just as vacuum solutions from Pfeiffer are tailored to your needs, the service offering is equally customized to meet the requirements of your rotary vane vacuum pumps. Ensuring a long service life and minimal downtime.

Our service portfolio includes preventive maintenance, on-site support, and repair options. With a global network of experienced sales and service specialists, Pfeiffer ensures expert assistance wherever your systems are in operation.
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FAQ

What are rotary vane vacuum pumps?

Rotary vane vacuum pumps are positive displacement pumps that utilize a rotor with vanes to generate vacuum. These rotating vanes form chambers between themselves and the pump housing in which they trap the pumped medium, effectively evacuating a sealed environment. Rotary vane vacuum pumps are known for their durability and efficient operation. Their reliable performance makes them a preferred choice in various industrial or scientific applications, including coating or freeze-drying.

How does a rotary vane vacuum pump work?

In a rotary vane vacuum pump, a rotor with several vanes is mounted eccentrically inside a cylindrical housing. As the rotor turns within the housing, the vanes slide out of the rotor due to centrifugal force, creating a series of expanding and contracting chambers with the housing. The process can be broken down into three main steps:

Inlet:

  • The pumped medium enters the vacuum pump through the inlet.
  • It is trapped in chambers formed between the vanes and the pump housing.


Compression:

  • As the rotor rotates, the chamber size shrinks.
  • The reduction in chamber size compresses the pumped medium.
  • Special oils are used to seal the clearance between the vanes and the housing.


Outlet:

  • When the pumped medium has reached maximum compression, it is expelled via the outlet.
  • A non-return valve prevents backflow into the vacuum pump.


The continuous rotation of the rotor and the movement of the vanes ensure a steady, low-pulsation flow of gas. With their robust design, these oil-lubricated pumps ensure long service life and reliable performance even in demanding processes.

How can I adjust the operation of my rotary vane vacuum pump to optimize performance across different applications?

Most models of rotary vane vacuum pumps from Pfeiffer have an integrated gas-ballast valve to improve water vapor compatibility in processes like freeze-drying. This prevents corrosion inside the pumps and elongates their service life. When the gas-ballast valve is opened, non-condensable gas flows into the vacuum pump. It mixes with the present vapor before it can condense and is expelled through the exhaust.

In processes with high thermal load such as heat treatment, a flushing gas like nitrogen can be introduced. This inert gas forms a layer above the operating fluid, protecting it from potential contamination through the process gas.

How do I select the right oil for my rotary vane vacuum pumps?

Special oils are essential for the operation of rotary vane vacuum pumps. They are used to seal the clearance between the vanes and the housing, enabling lower ultimate pressures. Additionally, the oil ensures continuous lubrication, resulting in reduced wear and a longer service life. The selection of the appropriate operating fluid allows the vacuum pumps to be better adapted to specific processes. For example, Pfeiffer offers special oils for corrosive processes. These synthetic oils protect the vacuum pump against contamination by corrosive media such as solvent vapors and prevent oxidation and rapid aging of the oil. All Pfeiffer operating fluids are specially designed for each vacuum pump model, with particular emphasis on achieving optimal performance in combination with a long service life.

What is the difference between a single-stage and a two-stage rotary vane vacuum pump?

The main difference between single-stage and two-stage rotary vane vacuum pumps lies in their compression processes and the resulting vacuum levels. A single-stage rotary vane vacuum pump compresses the pumped medium once. This generates medium vacuum levels, which are suitable for applications such as packaging foodstuffs. In contrast, a two-stage rotary vane vacuum pump compresses the pumped medium twice: first to a rough vacuum level, then the process is repeated a second time. This allows the vacuum pump to generate higher vacuum levels in the medium range, making it ideal for applications such as sterilization.

Expand your knowledge about rotary vane technology

Learn more about rotary vane technology and gain expertise with our webinars and vacuum technology book.

How to Achieve Oil-Free Conditions in the Laboratory

How to Achieve Oil-Free Conditions in the Laboratory

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Guess Who Is the Ideal Chemical Vacuum Solution?

Guess Who Is the Ideal Chemical Vacuum Solution?

Learn about pump selection, vacuum basics, and real-world applications, essential for boosting efficiency in the chemical industry.

Rotary Vane vs. Scroll: Best Vacuum Pump for Your Lab

Rotary Vane vs. Scroll: Best Vacuum Pump for Your Lab

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